“Lucky Lu” Crowned Best Film at the 9th Malaysia Golden Global Awards

The 9th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) concluded on a spectacular note with the 9th Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA), bringing together acclaimed filmmakers, celebrated actors and emerging talents from around the world. In line with this year’s festival theme, Resonance, the awards celebrated outstanding cinematic achievements and recognised films and performances that transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.

The evening’s highest honour, the Lifetime Achievement Award, was presented to acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Lee Chang-dong in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to world cinema. Regarded as one of the leading auteurs of contemporary cinema, Lee has earned international acclaim for films such as Peppermint Candy, Oasis, Poetry and Burning, which are celebrated for their emotional depth, literary sensibility and compassionate exploration of the human condition.

Meanwhile, Chinese actor, filmmaker and action icon Wu Jing received the Award for Excellent Achievement in Film for his significant contribution to contemporary Asian cinema. From his early career as a national wushu champion to becoming one of China’s most influential action stars and filmmakers, Wu Jing has played an important role in elevating the action genre while inspiring audiences around the world.

The coveted Best Film award went to Lucky Lu, directed by Lloyd Lee Choi, after the film impressed the international jury with its heartfelt storytelling and emotional authenticity. Exploring themes of identity, resilience and belonging, the film demonstrated the universal power of intimate human stories to connect with audiences across cultures.

Egyptian filmmaker Morad Mostafa was named Best Director for Aisha Can’t Fly Away, earning recognition for his assured cinematic vision and compelling exploration of displacement, survival and human dignity. Through restrained yet powerful storytelling, Mostafa presents a deeply moving portrait of resilience that leaves a lasting emotional impact.

The acting categories also celebrated several outstanding performances. Sri Lankan actor Mahendra Perera won Best Actor for his portrayal of Sergeant Udayasiri in Riverstone, delivering a performance praised for its emotional restraint, complexity and authenticity. The Best Actress award was jointly presented to Ong Xuan Jing for Ah Girl and Lila Gueneau for Silent Rebellion, with both actresses recognised for their emotional honesty, vulnerability and strong screen presence.

The Best Supporting Actor award went to Priyantha Sirikumara for Riverstone, while Audrey Lin (Li Li-li) received Best Supporting Actress for Girl. Both performances added depth and humanity to their respective films, further highlighting the strength and diversity of talent celebrated at this year’s awards.

The Red Hangar emerged as one of the evening’s standout winners, taking home two major awards for its artistic achievements. The film, which presents a restrained and politically charged story about men caught within the machinery of military power as history forces them to make difficult choices, impressed the jury through both its visual artistry and narrative strength.

Diego Pequeño received the Best Cinematography award for creating striking imagery that heightened the film’s emotional tension and political atmosphere. Luis Emilio Guzmán was also honoured with Best Screenplay for a nuanced script that skillfully balances intimate human drama with complex themes of history, loyalty and conscience.

The New Hope Award, presented by renowned Indian filmmaker Goutam Ghose, was awarded to Ah Girl, directed by Ang Geck Geck Priscilla. The award recognises emerging filmmakers who demonstrate originality, authentic storytelling and a distinctive artistic vision, highlighting the exciting future of international cinema.

Audiences also had the opportunity to make their voices heard, with Sirāt, directed by Oliver Laxe, receiving the Audience Choice Award. Selected through votes from festival audiences throughout the nine-day celebration, the film follows a father and his son as they journey through the deserts of southern Morocco in search of a missing family member. Set against the backdrop of an underground rave culture, the film develops into an emotionally charged exploration of hope, loss, resilience and the enduring bonds of family.

With the conclusion of its ninth edition, MIFFest continues to strengthen its position as an important international film festival in Asia, championing diverse cinematic voices and fostering meaningful cultural exchange through film. Guided by the theme Resonance, this year’s MGGA celebrated not only artistic excellence but also the enduring power of storytelling to inspire empathy, spark conversations and create lasting connections among audiences across the world.